State Rep. Perman files bill to combat crimes against seniors
November 16, 2011 · 1 Comments
TALLAHASSEE – State Representative Steve Perman (D-Boca Raton)
has filed House Bill 687–Theft Offenses to combat crimes against senior
citizens.
Current Florida law defines grand theft or fraud against a senior citizen as a
felony, but the sentencing guidelines need to be significantly strengthened,
the legislator said.
This bill, he noted, will provide mandatory minimum prison sentencing
guidelines for judges to use when determining the penalty for individuals
who commit grand theft or fraud against anyone 65 years of age or older.
“This legislation will serve as a strong deterrent to anyone thinking about
victimizing our seniors,” said Representative Perman. “I want Florida to lead
the nation in protecting our senior citizens.”
This bill is supported by the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association.
Representative Perman serves Florida House District 78, which includes
parts of Palm Beach, Martin, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, and Broward counties.
By aheizer
We were robbed. We can pick the person out of a lineup and we even know where they work. On March 21st we moved out of a rental in Ocala Florida and completed a walk thru with the property manager, Emily Lee. At that time she noted a small area of chipped paint and informed me that it would not cost much if anything at all to repair. No other damage was noted. After moving over 400 miles away the story changed. We were not changed for chipped paint. Emily informed me that I would have to wait the 30 days for my deposit and that I could dispute the charges for damages. I have waited over 6 weeks and no refund. Now the realtor inform us that they will not return any of our depostit ($590) I asked them several times how the dispute process worked but they did not have information to share with me. They are playing serious games with a senior citizen and I believe their behavior is unprofessional and possibly illegal. For the record, I believe that this is a common scam that landlords and property managers play with the public. What can I do to make a difference in this ongoing scam. People lose more than their money, they lose sleep, peace of mind and feel so helpless. How can people travel back to the state to sue the company?